Staying Safe and Warm with Electric Blankets

January 20th, 2019

Electric blankets are a great way to reduce pain and increase circulation when sleeping. Especially with plummeting temperatures in January, there’s something so comforting about curling up in an already-warm bed to settle down for the night. While electrical blankets can be a great boon, they can cause severe damage if not used properly. Here’s everything you need to know about electrical blankets and how best to use them:

How Do They Work

Put simply, an electric blanket is a blanket containing integrated electrical heating wires. Here in Canada there are several types of these devices including underblankets, overblankets, throws, and duvets. In the same way as heating pads, electric blankets use an insulated wire inserted into the fabric that heats when plugged in. Newer models have temperature control units and other safety features, so you may want to consider throwing away your old blankets as they have a much higher risk of fire and overheating.

Fire Hazard

That being said, newer safety features don’t excuse users from practicing proper electric blanket use. Even modern blankets can become a fire hazard. Crimping cords or wires can cause hot spots where fires can more easily ignite. This means that users shouldn’t be playing too rough with their blanket, ensuring that the wires don’t experience unnecessary wear and tear.

Overheating

There have been cases where an electric blanket overheats, causing severe burns to the user. This overheating can also cause electrical components within the blanket to melt and create those hot spots we mentioned above. To avoid overheating, ensure that your blanket has a shut-off mechanism and that you are only using it in room temperature environments. Rooms that are too hot or cold will confuse the temperature sensor. In addition, always turn your electric blanket off when you’re not using it, and never leave it on all night.

Other Considerations

Furthermore, electric blankets should only be used by those whom they will benefit. People who suffer from heat sensitivity or diabetes should avoid electric blankets. Those who are pregnant should consult their doctor before investing as the additional heat can affect their unborn babies. Young children, the elderly, or anyone else who cannot effectively read and follow the instructions on an electric blanket should also pass. This is to ensure that, should anything happen with the blanket, the user is able to remove themselves from danger and unplug the device as quickly as possible.

An electric blanket can be a great comfort for many people, but make sure to consider the risks of using one. If you have a heating blanket and are unsure as to its safety, or you are considering purchasing one, contact the electrical experts at 4 Star Electric today.